Malabar Gray Hornbill Bird Details
Ocyceros griseus
Malabar Gray Hornbill,Malabar Hornbill, Gray Hornbill;
Malabar Gray Hornbill
John Latham, 1790
Bucerotiformes (HOOPOES and HORNBILLS)
Bucerotidae
Ocyceros
India(Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra)
Appearance :
Mainly grayish in color with a lighter underbelly; distinct curved bill that is yellowish with a dark tip. Lacks a prominent crest, distinguishing it from some other hornbill species.
Behaviour :
Often seen in pairs or small family groups; they are known for their social and cooperative behavior. The Malabar Gray Hornbill is known for its unique breeding behavior, where the female seals herself in a tree cavity with mud, feces, and food. This provides protection for her and the chicks during incubation.
Habitat :
Primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical forests, especially those with large trees for nesting. Found in the lowland and hilly regions of forests.
Diet :
Omnivorous; feeds on a variety of fruits, berries, insects, and small vertebrates. They play an essential role in seed dispersal.
Conservation Status :
Near Threatened
Distribution :
Endemic to the Western Ghats of India.
Population Size :
Estimated to be declining.
Life Span :
Can live up to 20 years in the wild under favorable conditions.
Body And Tarsus:
- Body Structure: Medium-sized bird with a robust body.
- Tarsus Length: Approximately 5.5–6.0 cm.
Head And Bill :
- Head: Rounded with a relatively short neck, presenting a compact look.
- Eyes: Large, dark brown eyes that provide excellent vision; the eyes are surrounded by a bare yellowish skin patch.
- Bill: Prominent and curved, with a broad base and a slightly pointed tip. The bill is yellowish with a dark tip, enhancing its distinctive appearance.
- Bill Length: About 15–17 cm.
Length :
Ranges from 60 to 65 cm.
Neck :
Short and not prominently visible; blends with the body.
Size :
Medium-sized hornbill, noticeably smaller than some other species in the family Bucerotidae.
Tail Details :
- Tail: Long and tapered, aiding in flight stability.
- Tail Length: Approximately 20–25 cm.
- Feathers: Primarily gray with a lighter underside; feathers are strong and well-adapted for flight.
Weight :
Typically weighs between 1.5 to 2.0 kg.
Wing :
Broad wings with rounded tips; adapted for strong, agile flight.
Wing Span :
Approximately 90–100 cm.
Facial Feature :
The Malabar Gray Hornbill has a distinctive facial appearance, with a large, curved bill and bright yellow skin around the eyes.
Nest Details :
- Nest: The Malabar Gray Hornbill nests in tree cavities, which provide protection from predators and the elements.
- Nest Made Up Of: The female uses mud, feces, and other materials to seal the entrance of the nest cavity, leaving only a small opening for the male to feed her and the chicks.
Breeding Season :
Typically breeds from March to July.
Nesting Season :
The nesting season coincides with the onset of the monsoon in the Western Ghats
Egg Color :
The eggs are typically glossy white or pale cream in color.
Egg Length :
Approximately 4.5–5.5 cm.
Egg Width and Weight :
- Egg Width: About 3.5–4.0 cm.
- Egg Weight: Around 50–60 grams per egg.
Clutch Size :
Generally lays 2 to 4 eggs per clutch.
No. of Broods :
Usually one brood per breeding season.
Incubation Period :
The incubation period lasts approximately 30 to 35 days.
Nestling Period :
Chicks fledge (leave the nest) after about 45 to 60 days.
Vocalization :
Known for their loud and varied vocalizations, which include hoots, growls, and squawks. Their calls can carry over long distances, facilitating communication between mates and social groups.
Sex Demorphism :
Males are slightly larger and have a more robust bill than females.
Migration Details :
Generally sedentary and does not undertake long migrations;